From 1 August 2012, "Administrative Measures on Prioritized Examination of Patent Applications" will allow for a speedier examination of Chinese invention patent applications upon request by the applicant.  Prioritized examination will be possible for applications in certain technological areas like energy conservation, environmental protection, high-end equipment manufacturing, new energy, new materials or new energy vehicles.

Once the Chinese Patent Office (SIPO) grants a request for prioritized application, a first office action will be issued within 30 days.  The applicant should reply within two months.  According to the Measures, SIPO will complete prioritized examinations within one year.